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Michael Schumacher's future plans unclear following Hamilton signing

September 27, 2012

Michael Schumacher will not be driving for Mercedes in 2013 after the team signed Lewis Hamilton on Friday. Photo by LAT PHOTOGRAPHIC

The Friday announcement from Mercedes about Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton's move to Mercedes made no mention either of retirement plans or a future role with the company for the departing Michael Schumacher.

Schumacher was given a simple 'No thanks' at the end of his three-year contract--and that possibly the very future of the team depended upon Hamilton's arrival. Schumacher is believed to have had a deal that would have paid him to stay on at Mercedes in some role. However, the fact that Niki Lauda has been announced as a non-executive chairman of the team suggests that there is no room for Schumacher in any kind of management job.

It has to be assumed that Schumacher wishes to consider driving, but the options appear to be limited.

He has been linked to Sauber--although an Esteban Gutierrez/Jaime Alguersuari lineup is reported to be considered for the Swiss team.

“I have had three nice years with the team which unfortunately did not go as well as we all would have wanted on the sporting side," Schumacher said. "I wish Lewis well and for the team to achieve the success we worked so hard for in the build-up. I would like to thank the team for their trust and all the guys for their unconditional commitment. I will now concentrate on the next races.”

Meanwhile the management chose its words very carefully.

“I would first of all like to thank Michael Schumacher for the important contribution he has made to the growth of our team over the past three seasons,” said Ross Brawn. “His energy and commitment have never wavered, even when results have not matched our own expectations, and we are determined to finish the 2012 season together on a high. As always, it has been a pleasure to work with Michael.”

“Of course, it takes a great driver to replace such a legendary and successful one as Michael Schumacher,” said Norbert Haug. “Over the past three years, Michael has been a great driver and an exemplary ambassador for Mercedes AMG Petronas.

“His experience has been an important factor in guiding the development of our team in Brackley and we extend our sincere thanks to Michael for his loyalty, team play and commitment. We will be working very hard together in order to achieve the best possible results in the remainder of the 2012 season.”